Canada & USA Destination Planner 2019-20 Canada Destination Planner | Page 115

Jasper A UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to one of the planet’s largest dark sky preserves, Jasper is an intimate community in the middle of protected wilderness. Maligne Lake, Alberta - Ryan Bray Photo Maligne Lake – at 22 kilometres long, the majestic Maligne Lake is the second- largest glacier-fed lake in the world. While its azure-blue waters can be cold for swimming, there are plenty of other activities to do in the Maligne Valley such as hiking, biking, fishing, canoeing, kayaking and boat tours to Spirit Island. Dark Sky Preserve – in 2011, the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada designated Jasper National Park as a dark sky preserve, an area where almost no artificial lighting is visible at night. Enjoy the tranquility and awe of looking up into the night sky filled with countless stars. Jasper SkyTram – after boarding the longest and highest guided aerial tramway in Canada, prepare to be amazed by unparalleled views of Jasper National Park, all from a comfortable and safe compartment 2,277 metres above the ground. On a clear day, you can even see the white pyramid of Mount Robson in nearby British Columbia. Along the way, your fully trained and knowledgeable flight attendant will be on hand to point out the many sights and answer your questions. Marmot Basin – Jasper’s ski resort is known for its spectacular views, varied runs and laid-back atmosphere. Marmot lays claim to the highest base elevation of all Canadian ski areas. Ski or snowboard 1,675 acres, 86 runs and 3,000 vertical feet of diverse terrain. Mount Edith Cavell – a mountain located in the Athabasca River and Astoria River valleys of Jasper National Park, Canada, and the most prominent peak entirely within Alberta. A close-up view of the north face of Mt. Edith Cavell is visible after a short hike to Cavell Meadows. 3 Day Jasper Winter Getaway Enjoy the best of winter in Jasper National Park on this three-day winter getaway. Ski, relax, explore and discover this beautiful Canadian Rockies town. Highlights (included): • Marmot Basin lift ticket • Spa treatment at Mountain Wellness Day Spa • Maligne Canyon icewalk and snowshoe tour • Dog sledding • Ice skating at Pyramid Lake Resort • Jasper Planetarium and stargazing Day 1: Arrive Jasper Day 2: Jasper sightseeing Day 3: Package ends Package includes: 3 nights of accommodation, sightseeing and attractions as listed above. Please refer to pricing insert for dates and prices. Jasper SkyTram Gain a new perspective on Jasper National Park, the largest park in the UNESCO Canadian Rockies World Heritage Site. Start your adventure with a ride on the famous Jasper SkyTram, which is the longest and highest guided aerial tramway in Canada. This family trip offers incredible views of six different mountain ranges, the town of Jasper, numerous lakes and the glacial fed Athabasca River. Soar above the park’s sub-alpine vegetation, as you gently climb for seven minutes to the upper station, located at 2,263 meters (7,425 feet) above sea level. A knowledgeable guide will accompany you on your flight, sharing insights about the area, its history and the wealth of wildlife nearby. Stroll on the boardwalk, then hike the 1.4-km alpine Summit Trail to the top of Whistlers Mountain at 2,463 meters (8,081 feet). You might spot a ptarmigan, ground squirrels, hoary marmots (famous for their whistling alerts), pikas or even bighorn sheep along the way. Make sure to stop at the Summit Restaurant for a meal at the top of the Canadian Rockies and visit the gift shops at the upper or lower stations. Try snowshoeing at the upper station from opening day in late March to May, or join the Star Sessions in September and October. Jasper SkyTram is located on Whistlers Road, only seven km south of Jasper off Hwy 93. From $49 www.andersonvacations.ca 113